Being single

Being single has both its ups and downs, depending on how you think about it. Remember: you’re not the only one who’s single. Ignore the couple brigade and focus on the stuff you like to do. There’s heaps of things out there to enjoy as a single person.

This can help if:

you’re single and happy

you want to know more about the benefits of being single

you don’t want to be single, or dislike being single, on a night out

you’re single on Valentine’s Day

It’s okay to be single

Whether you’re single or in a relationship says nothing about who you are or your values as a person.

In our lovey-dovey society, where magazines, movies and books are full of stories about falling in love, it’s not uncommon to feel like you’re the only single person in town. Just remember it’s always okay to be single!

Friends have benefits

Being single doesn’t mean being lonely.

You’re young, free and independent. You’ve got mates who care about you, who like you for exactly who you are, and who want to share fun times with you.

Even if you’re an introvert, being single gives you the time and opportunity to forge those fabulous one-on-one friendships that you’re so good at.

Be true to yourself

Being in a relationship can seem like a really cool idea, and when the right person comes along it can be great.

But not all relationships are created equal. So never sacrifice who you are, or what you want (whatever that may be), just so that you can tell your mates you have a girlfriend or a boyfriend. It’s way better not to be in a relationship than to be in a bad one.

Tips for ignoring the couple brigade

We’ve all met those annoying people who question why anyone would ever be happily single. Often that’s because they lack the imagination or a strong enough sense of self to not be in a couple. They might even imply that there’s something wrong with you if you’re single and happy! The best response is just to say, ‘I like being single’ and then change the topic of conversation.

Surviving Valentine’s Day and other classic date nights

If Valentine’s Day and other classic date nights are tough ones for you, try and work out a plan in advance for what you might do. Here are some ideas:

Get moving. Go kick a footy with your mates, organise a tennis match, or go for a run or a walk, and let the fresh air and endorphins blow away any negative thoughts.

Organise a night in with your single friends. Rent some good non-romance films, order in pizza, and enjoy time with the important people in your life.

Go out to a gig, or see a movie or watch a sports match.

Treat yourself. Remember: the person that you’re going to spend every minute of the rest of your life with is you, so show yourself some love!

Being single at a party

When all you can see around you are lovey-dovey couples, it doesn’t mean you’re the odd one out. It all comes down to your attitude. Here’s what to do.

First, plan ahead. Wear something that makes you feel comfortable and good about yourself. Then, stay positive and open. Don’t feel like you have to impress anyone other than yourself.

Enjoy chatting with new people, work on your socialising skills, and get up and dance. Use parties as an opportunity to show yourself and others how much fun you can be.

A lot of people find it hard to enjoy spending time alone. If you can crack that, you’ll find there’s so much more out there waiting to be enjoyed.